Social Security Disability Help (SSDI & SSI)

Two programs, one definition of disability

	SSDI (Title II)	SSI (Title XVI)
Based on	Your work history and Social Security taxes paid ("work credits")	Financial need. Limited income and resources (generally $2,000 individual / $3,000 couple).
Monthly amount	Based on your lifetime earnings record	Up to $994 individual / $1,491 couple in 2026, reduced by countable income
Health coverage	Medicare after 24 months of entitlement	Medicaid in most states, including Arkansas
Back pay	Up to 12 months before the application, after a 5-month waiting period	From the month after you apply

Both programs use the same adult definition of disability: a medically determinable impairment that prevents substantial gainful activity ($1,690/month in 2026 for non-blind individuals) and has lasted, or is expected to last, at least 12 months or result in death.

How SSA decides: the five-step evaluation

Are you working above the SGA level?
Is your impairment "severe"?
Does it meet or equal a listing in SSA's "Blue Book"?
Can you do your past relevant work?
Can you do any other work, considering your age, education, and experience?

Most cases are decided at steps 4 and 5, where detailed medical opinions about your functional limits, your residual functional capacity, make the difference.

Can't work because of your health?

We'll review whether SSDI, SSI, or both may fit your situation.

Free Claim Review →